Demand for no and low alcoholic drinks is up again over the past year, as shoppers look for alcohol alternatives beyond January.
New data from Ocado shows a significant rise in sales of no and low products over the past 12 months, although January is a popular month for alternatives.
Sales of no and low beer are up 46 per cent this January compared to last, while ready-to-drink cocktails and spirits increased 31 and 13 per cent, respectively.
Younger consumers are driving a change in drinking habits in the new year, with a survey by Ocado revealing 45 per cent of 18-34 year olds have ditched booze in January at some point.
It marks a much bigger proportion compared to 31 per cent of 35-54 year olds and 10 per cent of those aged over 55.
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However, half of 35-54 year olds say they have reduced their alcohol consumption over the past few years and a third have given up entirely, thanks to an improved range of products and a desire to lead healthier lifestyles.
Two in five of those aged over 35 said improving their overall health was their priority, while 27 per cent wanted to lose weight.
Among the most popular products has been Thatchers Zero, with sales up 90 per cent over the last year, while Tanqueray Alcohol Free 0.0 per cent Spirit increased 32 per cent.
Adnams Ghost Ship 0.5 per cent remains a firm favourite, with sales up 22 per cent over the course of the year.
Last year, Adnams Brewery told This Is Money that Ghost Ship 0.5 per cent, which it launched in 2018, now accounts for 26 per cent of sales of the ale.
Ocado said the figures suggested the 25 per cent increase in its range of alcohol alternatives is ‘helping to convert customers into trying non-alcoholic versions of their favourite drinks’.
Similarly, Guinness Zero has proved a hit with drinkers. In 2023, owner Diageo announced it would aim to triple production of its zero-alcohol brand in response to changing tastes.
The drink, which launched in 2021, is on course to account for 10 per cent of all Guinness sales in Ireland in the coming years.
Shauna Clark Fitzpatrick, no and low buyer at Ocado Retail, said: ‘Consumers of all ages are becoming more mindful of their drinking habits, some prompted by Dry January and others by longer term lifestyle considerations throughout the year.
‘Both our alcoholic and no and low ranges continue to grow significantly, launching 9 new products this month, making it easier than ever for our customers to find a beverage that suits their need whilst bringing innovative and exciting flavours.’
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